§ Mr. SMEDLEY CROOKEasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that a number of temporary clerical assistants of the highest efficiency who have been engaged on transitional payments work have been dismissed because of the expiration of the time limit for their service agreements; and whether he will now consider the advisability of these officers being taken over by the Unemployment Assistance Board as and when the change-over takes effect?
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§ Sir H. BETTERTONAs regards the first part of the question, so long as the transitional payments scheme continues in operation, the engagement and dismissal of the temporary staff referred to is a matter entirely within the discretion of the local authorities by whom they are2116W engaged, and who, no doubt, have due regard to fluctuations in the volume of work. As regards the second part of the question, I hope to have an opportunity of making a statement at an appropriate stage in the consideration of Part II of the Unemployment Bill.